Essential Car Security Tips For This Winter

Posted on 6th January 2014

For many people, a car is the second most expensive purchase they will ever make, behind the family home. Due to this, it makes sense to invest in improving the security of your vehicle, whether it is a car, a motorbike or a van. Just think of the inconvenience that it would represent having your vehicle or its contents stolen, even if your insurance covers part of the expenses.

The winter months have become a particularly bad time of the year when it comes to vehicle crime, especially around Christmas time, as vehicles become a prime target for thieves looking to steal the vehicle or its contents (such as gifts and Christmas purchases). As it’s better to be safe than sorry, we have put together a series of tips to help you keep your car secure at all times this winter.

Out of Sight, Out of Mind

A large percentage of vehicle crime is opportunistic, which means that thieves and wrongdoers look for the easiest target. Leaving any type of valuables in your car makes it vulnerable to thieves, so make sure that you take any valuable personal belongings with you when you leave your car, or that you lock them out of sight, such as in the glove compartment or in the boot.

Fit Tinted Windows

Tinted windows are a useful vehicle security product, as they make it harder for would-be thieves to peer in, therefore acting as a deterrent. Tinted windows have other advantages, such as improved energy efficiency and a stylish appearance. Always make sure that you choose a company that is familiar with window tinting laws in order to avoid being fined.

Car Alarms

According to the Metropolitan Police, it takes as little as 10 seconds for someone to break into your car and steal its contents. Fitting your car with a top-quality alarm makes your vehicle less exposed to opportunistic theft, as the last thing that criminals want is to draw attention to themselves. Install a wheel lock

Installing a wheel lock or wheel clamp system can help keep your car secure, as they are notoriously difficult to tamper with and also act as an immobiliser. One of their main benefits is that they are highly visible, so potential thieves will be easily discouraged from breaking into your car.

Regardless of which security product you choose, always make sure that your supplier is well-established and sells approved devices. At Autotronix, we take pride in our extensive range of state-of-the-art vehicle security products, including car and van locks, tracking systems, alarms and immobilisers. Our team has two decades of experience selling and installing the top brands, so call us today and we’ll be happy to help out.